Responsibility Of Poseidon In Odysseus In Homer's Odyssey

Poseidon’s unlimited power and his ability to control the earth creates the most havoc and disorder for Odysseus. While going home, Odysseus is spotted by Poseidon and he says to himself, “He[Odysseus] is just offshore of that island that frees him… still I can give him a rough ride, and I will.” Poseidon, seeing that Odysseus is about to gain freedom, tries to prevent him by building up a storm in hopes of breaking Odysseus’ boat and hindering him going back to Itanka. Although all the other Gods favor Odysseus and look for ways to help, Poseidon still goes against the popular favor because of his desire for revenge. The sacrifices made to him by Odysseus years before weren’t enough to satisfy him. Poseidon says that he “still can” create …show more content…
When Odysseus first arrives at the island he gets an unpleasant welcome from Polyphemus. His men are eaten and he curses Polyphemus by saying Zeus will avenge his actions. However, he responded with an attitude of indifference and says, “We Kyklopes care not a whistle for your thundering Zeus or all the Gods in bliss, we have more force.” His disbelief in the Gods shows his unwillingness to show xenia to any guests that arrive to his island. In most of the other islands that Odysseus visited, the men welcomed him and showed outstanding kindness because they feel they were obliged to obey Zeus’ decree. Polyphemus, because he “cares not a whistle” and has no respect towards the Gods, refuses to follow standard rules of xenia and goes about his own ways. Moreover, by saying he has “more force” than the Gods, he demonstrates how he can act anyway he wants without any consequences. He exercises his beliefs by throwing boulders at Odysseus and his ship while he was attempting to escape. Polyphemus assumes what he did was correct and even blames Odysseus for his conduct and begs Poseidon to create wrath and kill Odysseus. This portrays his dependence on his father, a God, when he is in times of need, but his disregard to him otherwise; this in turn creates more havoc for Odysseus. The Kyklopes’ behavior and attitude create disorder

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Responsibility Of Poseidon In Odysseus In Homer's Odyssey

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